Tweed is a rough, woollen cloth woven for warmth and durability. It is closely linked with Scotland, country clothing and traditional British style, and is most often seen in jackets, trousers and caps. This guide explains what tweed is, the main types, how Harris Tweed differs and how to wear it.
Last updated November 2026.
What is tweed?
Tweed is a thick, textured wool fabric with a slightly rough feel. It is woven in a twill or similar structure, often with flecks or patterns created by mixing coloured yarns. It was developed for hard-wearing outdoor clothing in cold, damp climates, which is why it is still a favourite for country and shooting wear.
Where does the name tweed come from?
The name is commonly linked to the River Tweed in the Scottish Borders, and to a Scots word for twill. The exact origin is debated, but Scotland is the traditional home of tweed.
What is Harris Tweed?
Harris Tweed is a protected type of tweed. By law it must be handwoven by islanders in their homes in the Outer Hebrides from pure virgin wool that is dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides. Genuine pieces carry the Orb mark. You will find it in items like The British Bag Company Carloway Harris Tweed cap.
Common tweed patterns
- Herringbone: A V-shaped zigzag weave. See the Dents Herringbone flat cap.
- Dogtooth (houndstooth): A broken check with pointed shapes. See the Dents Dogtooth flat cap.
- Windowpane check: Thin lines forming large squares, like panes of a window. See the Dents Windowpane Check.
- Glen plaid (Glen check): A woven twill with a mix of small and large checks. See the Dents Glen Plaid.
- Plain flecked tweed: Mixed-colour yarns that give a heathered, earthy look.
Other types of tweed
Besides Harris Tweed, you may come across Shetland tweed, a soft and lighter wool, and Donegal tweed, an Irish tweed known for coloured flecks. Each has its own look and feel.
What is tweed used for?
- Flat caps and baker boy hats: Warm and shapely. See our best flat caps UK guide and the Craggi tweed baker boy.
- Shooting caps: The Harkila Badanloch is a British wool tweed shooting cap.
- Jackets and trousers: Read our tweed jacket guide.
Why wear tweed?
- Warm: Wool traps heat, so tweed suits autumn and winter.
- Hard-wearing: A tight weave stands up to brambles and years of use.
- Weather resistant: Wool sheds light drizzle, although tweed is not waterproof.
- Classic style: It suits the country, the shoot and smart casual wear.
How to wear tweed
Keep it simple. Pair a tweed cap with a waxed jacket or quilted gilet, or wear a tweed jacket with chinos or moleskin trousers. See our tweed flat cap guide and moleskin trousers explained.
How to care for tweed
Brush off dirt with a soft clothes brush and air tweed after wearing. Spot clean marks with a damp cloth and avoid hot washes, which can shrink wool. Check the care label, and dry clean or hand wash as it advises.
Tweed FAQs
Is tweed waterproof?
No. Tweed resists light rain but is not waterproof. Wear a waterproof jacket in heavy rain.
Is tweed warm?
Yes. It is a thick wool fabric designed for cold, damp weather.
What is the difference between tweed and Harris Tweed?
Harris Tweed is a protected tweed that must be handwoven in the Outer Hebrides from Hebridean-dyed and spun wool. Other tweeds can be woven elsewhere.
Is tweed itchy?
It can feel coarser than softer wools. Satin-lined caps and jackets reduce contact with the skin.
Can you wash tweed?
Usually spot clean or dry clean. Always check the care label first.
Shop tweed
Browse flat caps and ladies' tweed. More guides are in The Field Guide.
Need help choosing?
Not sure which tweed piece is right? Email help@4elementsclothing.co.uk and we will be happy to help. Orders placed before 3pm Monday to Friday (10am Saturday) are dispatched the same day.
